Winter Fun - Without the Cold and Snow!

Downhome Magazine
Posted: Dec 21, 2009 3:53 PM

� Learn a new language, brush up on your computer skills or learn how to speak in public without the panic. Universities and colleges often offer a wide range of personal and professional development courses. From sign language and singing classes to cooking and cartooning, there is sure to be something to tickle everyone's fancy. If you don't live near a university/college, go online and learn from the comfort of your home.

� Take up a new hobby that will allow you to be really "hands on" - pottery making. Contact your local craft council or arts store (or professional potters in your community) to find out what classes are available. If you don't know the first thing about making pottery, ask about beginner's classes where you will learn everything from hand-building techniques to how to throw on the potter's wheel to create fun and functional pieces of art.

� Enjoy a good book (and good company) by joining a book club, or if there is no such club in your area, start one. Book clubs are a great way to get together with friends to share good stories and exchange ideas. In this province alone, there is no shortage of talented authors. Some college campuses offer book clubs that feature local authors as guest speakers, so you can hear all about how their stories came to be, "straight from the horse's mouth."

� Register for a cooking class at your local grocery store or community centre, and learn how to prepare a meal that will tantalize the tastebuds of even the pickiest eater. From tasty tapas to sensational soups, you don't need to be a professional chef to be able to cook like one. Sometimes, certain locations also offer seminars on healthy food choices. Or if you're in the mood for a more sweet retreat, take a cake decorating class at your local supermarket or bakery.

� Find your rhythm. Burn off some extra calories and have a great time doing it by taking a dance class. Whether you're interested in ballet, ballroom, belly or line dancing; Irish step dancing; jazz or hip hop, there's a class out there for everyone, no matter what your age or skill level. So get up off the couch, grab a friend, pump up the volume and get moving.

� Plan mid-winter makeovers. Gather up your best girlfriends and host a Mary Kay makeup party. Or if you're more of a "kitchen goddess," host a Tupperware or Pampered Chef party. Either way, it's a good excuse to meet with friends for wine and food.